Building connections between people has become something of a calling for Rachel Crane (BBA ’11).

As an educator and local leader, she is committed to creating inclusive, resilient communities through collaboration and compassion.

Crane received the 2025 Brock University Alumni Association (BUAA) Community Engagement Award during Brock’s Homecoming celebrations in recognition of her efforts to create meaningful change.

Her journey as a community builder began at Brock.

“The impact that Brock had on me was immense. I say that I grew up here. It led to me finding my place in community and feeling like I had purpose and well-being, that I was part of something bigger than myself,” says Crane, who was a first-generation university student.

As a Brock student, she worked hard to put herself out there, try new things – such as studying abroad – and get involved.

“Just knocking on a door opened so many other doors for me. I met my future husband, some of my future bosses and my really good friends,” she says.

For nearly two decades, Crane has helped organizations and communities navigate complex situations and unlock their potential through relationship- and values-driven approaches.

She currently serves as Executive Director of Literacy Link Niagara, which supports adult education, training and skills development, and recently wrapped up four dynamic years leading at Workforce Collective, which partners across social and economic ecosystems to address workforce challenges through creative thinking and data-informed decision making.

In addition to her leadership roles, Crane has spent more than a decade shaping future generations as an educator at Niagara College, where she is known for her authentic connection with learners and her dedication to mentorship and empowerment.

Since graduating from Brock, she has also earned a master’s in Leadership and founded a social enterprise focused on expanding access to arts and yoga programming, earning her a Top 40 Under 40 Business Achievement Award.

Her volunteer work spans local, national and international contexts, including board service, sector-wide initiatives and cross-cultural projects.

Whether supporting youth, newcomers, Indigenous communities or older adults, Crane’s work is grounded in the conviction that human connection is the foundation for systemic change.

“This award is deeply meaningful to me because nearly 20 years ago, I sat in the audience at a Distinguished Alumni event as a student. I remember being inspired by the graduates who shared how they launched their careers from Brock and were recognized for making a positive difference. That spark of inspiration stayed with me, and I’ve carried it into every community I’ve been part of,” Crane said.

Nominations for the 2026 BUAA awards are now open. To learn more about these awards and submit a nomination, visit the Alumni Relations website.